'Fake prince' fortune to be auctioned in Australia

SYDNEY (AFP) - A trove of luxury goods including a fake crown amassed by a health executive in Australia who claimed to be a Tahitian prince as he allegedly embezzled millions is to be sold off, officials said Monday.

New Zealand-born Hohepa Morehu-Barlow, also known as Joel Barlow, is due to appear in court next month over his alleged defrauding of up to Aus$16 million (S$20 million) from Queensland state's health department where he worked as a top executive.

Posing as a Tahitian prince in social circles, Morehu-Barlow enjoyed a lavish lifestyle, with an exclusive waterfront apartment, several sports cars and an array of luxury goods, allegedly funded by his theft.

Queensland Health Minister Lawrence Springborg said items from the former executive's estate were to be auctioned next month in a bid to retrieve the millions he is accused of stealing.